Cheese Stuffed Manicotti Shells
Cheese stuffed manicotti shells baked in a rich tomato meat sauce, combining creamy cottage cheese and melted mozzarella for a comforting Italian favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add canned tomatoes, tomato paste, water, parsley, oregano, sugar, and garlic powder to the beef mixture.
- Simmer the sauce for 30 minutes.
- Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions and drain.
- Mix cottage cheese with the egg and 2 teaspoons parsley.
- Stuff the cooked shells with the cheese mixture and place in a baking dish.
- Cover the stuffed shells with the prepared tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your sauce, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped bell peppers. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute ricotta cheese for cottage cheese. For added richness, try mixing in some grated Parmesan. Make sure to fully drain the cooked manicotti shells to prevent excess water in your dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your cheese stuffed manicotti with a fresh green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced meal. Garlic bread is another great side that pairs beautifully with this dish. For an Italian-inspired dinner, consider adding a side of Italian Style Chili for a hearty finish or a light dessert like tiramisu to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Stuffed Manicotti Shells contains roughly 1227 calories, with 49g protein, 204g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (168% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (119% of the Daily Value), and protein (98% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 858mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cheese stuffed manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the manicotti and assemble it in the baking dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. For added flavor, consider using Italian sausage. This will complement the dish well and give it a richer taste, similar to the flavors found in traditional Italian recipes.
How do I ensure the manicotti shells don't break while cooking?
To prevent the shells from breaking, cook them al dente according to the package instructions, as they will continue to cook while baking. Adding a teaspoon of oil to the boiling water can help reduce sticking. Handle the shells gently when draining and stuffing to maintain their shape.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).